In a letter addressed to President Zelensky, the Association of Ukrainian Cities (AUC) has requested assistance in retaining 64% of personal income tax (PIT) revenues and reverse subsidies in community budgets. The appeal represents the collective voice of 1,094 municipalities.
Local government representatives have also raised concerns regarding the protection of communities from Russian shelling, the unblocking of budget payments, and the preservation of staff reservations in critical infrastructure sectors.
Among the urgent needs identified by the AUC is the enhancement of air defense capabilities, specifically the provision of munitions and technical resources to combat intense shelling. These issues, alongside budget payment delays and staff reservations for communal, energy, and transport enterprises, were highlighted by AUC head and Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko during a discussion in the Verkhovna Rada on October 13.
Association members emphasized that a significant issue for local governance has been the blockage of community funds, which hampers the ability to make payments essential for the safety of residents.
Municipalities are advocating for the continuity of staff reservations for those working in housing, utilities, energy, and transportation sectors, as these specialists are crucial for the uninterrupted operation of critical infrastructure, especially during the heating season and in response to Russian attacks.
The appeal to the president underscores that maintaining 64% of PIT revenues and reverse subsidy funds is vital for sustaining the financial viability of communities and ensuring the functionality of local governance.
